Ride smart—BikeSafe! The number one rule for riders and drivers is Pay Attention!

See below for some safety tips and best bicycle safety practices. Click here to download a great map of bike routes in Thousand Oaks.

FOR CYCLISTS:

• Ride on the right side of the road with the flow of traffic.
• It is important to obey the rules. Stop or yield when required.
• See and be seen. Wear bright colors and make eye contact when interacting with drivers or pedestrians.
• Wear a helmet at all times and always ride single file.
• Practice regular safety checks and know the basics about fixing your bike.
• Ride far enough to the left of parked cars so that opening car doors are not a danger.
• You must have a light on the front and reflectors on the back of your bike if you ride at night or in foul weather. Add a taillight for more safety.
• Make sure your bike is in good shape; the tires are full and the brakes work.
• Obey all traffic signals and stop signs.
• Always ride in the same direction the cars are going, even if you are on the sidewalk.
• Stop and walk your bike across streets.
• Learn the proper hand signals and use them all the time.
• Make sure you make eye contact with any drivers when crossing the street.
• If you ride in the street, be careful of parked cars opening their doors in front of you.

FOR MOTORISTS:

• Slow down and watch for bicycles and pedestrians.
• Remember that your heavy vehicle outweighs a bike or a person.
• Pass safely when you have the opportunity.
• Be patient if you are behind a cyclist, especially if there is a sharrow road marking present; it is usually just a brief delay.
• Make eye contact when approaching a cyclist or pedestrian.